When my best friend was murdered, it completely destroyed me. It took a very long time for me to even feel okay again. I was angry that he was taken from me, and I didn’t think anything beautiful could come from such an ugly event.
Now, looking back, I realize that I learned. Now, I know how to deal with loss, and at times I’m even able to comfort others who have gone through loss. I never would have wanted it to be with way, but if this is what I can take from it, I will.

Another thing:
I grew up in an abusive home. The beautiful thing is that I got out. And I’m okay. I’m too stubborn not to be.
I’ve learned to stop apologizing for taking care of my basic needs. I’m going to thrive, because I won’t settle for anything less. And if anyone wants to make me believe that I am anything less than a strong, intelligent, valuable human being, they can do their worst. I won’t be brought down any longer. I have changed.

@AshLeigh Well I do admire your strength, and Im glad that you were able to remove yourself from that toxic situation, tho your friend was taken away from your life,hes with you in spirit, when you feel you need him near, just open your book of memories. ((hugs))

My best friend’s suicide. Four years later and I’m not anywhere close to being over it. However, I will never, under any circumstance, go without telling the most important people in my life how much I love them. There’s not a single reason to not love another human being with everything that you have, once you’ve decided to do so.

I lost a lot of my close family when I was young. I was an extremely angry young man. I had to decide what to do with that anger. I think I channeled it into helping people because I know how valuable peeps are.

I’m quite familiar with it, and I’ve experienced it so many times. It’s also (gasp!) a Biblical concept. Isaiah 61:3
“To grant those who mourn in Zion, Giving them a garland instead of ashes, The oil of gladness instead of mourning, The mantle of praise instead of a spirit of fainting. So they will be called oaks of righteousness, The planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.”